Peruvian 20th C Spanish Colonial Cuzco School Escuela Cuzqueña Catholic Religious Icon Oil Painting Archangel Rafael
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20th century Peruvian Spanish Colonial Cuzco School of Art oil painting on canvas of Archangel Rafael. The painting alone measures approximately 11.9" X 15.75". In the original 20th-century gold gilt, carved wood frame, the painting measures approximately 17.3" X 21.25". The painting is in very good original condition. There is a vertical light pressure mark to the left, from the wood canvas stretcher.
The Cusco School, also known as Escuela cuzqueña or Cuzco School, was an artistic tradition rooted in Roman Catholic themes and based in Cusco, Peru, during the Colonial period spanning the 16th to 18th centuries. This tradition extended beyond Cusco to various Andean cities, as well as present-day Ecuador and Bolivia. History: The Cusco School emerged after the Spanish conquest of Peru in 1534, becoming the first center to systematically teach European artistic techniques in the Americas. Influenced by Italian painter Bernardo Bitti in 1583, Cuzqueño art adopted Mannerism, characterized by elongated figures and focused lighting. Over time, the Baroque style, inspired by tenebrism and Flemish engravings, became prominent. By the late 17th century, Amerindian-Quechua and Mestizo painters contributed, shaping a distinct Cuzqueña art with a focus on local themes, such as the Corpus Christi procession and Andean flora/fauna. A rupture in the painters' corporation in 1688 marked a turning point, allowing indigenous artists to express their unique perspectives freely. Notable Artists: Diego Quispe Tito, born in 1611, and Luis de Riaño were influential in the early development of Cuzqueña painting. The 18th century saw prolific artists like Basilio Santa Cruz Pumacallao and Marcos Zapata, known for his decorative Cathedral arches. Patronage and Collections: Bishop Manuel de Mollinedo y Angulo played a vital role as a patron, supporting artists like Santa Cruz Pumacallao, Antonio Sinchi Roca Inka, and Marcos Rivera. The Cusco School's artworks, predominantly religious, were didactic, reflecting a blend of European and indigenous influences. Characterized by religious themes, lack of perspective, and vibrant colors (red, yellow, earth tones), Cusqueña paintings often featured gold leaf, especially in depictions of the Virgin Mary. The artists creatively adapted European techniques, incorporating native flora, fauna, and warrior angels into their works. Numerous Cusco School paintings are preserved in Cusco, Calamarca (Bolivia), and museums worldwide, including Brazil, the United States, England, and Bogotá. The Cusco Cathedral holds the largest collection, while the Lima Art Museum and Inca Museum also house significant pieces. In recent years, there has been a growing demand for Cusco School paintings, with increased interest from Latin American collectors and museums. Repatriation efforts have aimed to return unlawfully acquired artworks, highlighting the enduring value and relevance of this unique artistic tradition. Contact Us: pacificfineart@gmail.com 424-259-3290 |